World Firsts

Virenium®

In 1978, Pobjoy Mint developed the world's first satisfactory man-made precious metal, called Virenium®, which has been successfully used in high denomination coinage since then. This new wonder alloy was specially developed for the circulation edition of the First 'Round Pound' coin on behalf of the Isle of Man.

Virenium® is a complex alloy and metallic laminate of nickel, copper and zinc. It has a gold-like hue with high lustre and permanent magnetic properties. It has been perfected with inherent fraud-proof properties rendering it virtually impossible to counterfeit.